NuTone VX550 Installation guide

Brand: NuTone

Model: VX550

Category: Vacuum cleaners

Type: Installation guide

BUILT-IN

CENTRAL CLEANING SYSTEM

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

For Power Unit Models

VX475, VX550, VX1000, VX475C, VX550C, and VX1000C

Broan-NuTone LLC

Hartford, Wisconsin

www.nutone.com

888-336-3948

To register this product, visit www.nutone.com

Part No. 30042322 rev. 08

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SYSTEM PLANNING AND LAYOUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Locating the Power Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Tubing and Wall Inlet Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

GENERAL INSTALLATION GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6

Tool Listing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Working with Plastic Tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6

INSTALLATION IN NEW CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-11

Wall Inlet Rough-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Installing the Tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Wall Inlet Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Models CI370 & 360 Wall Inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Model 330 Wall Inlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Model CI395RK Electravalve Electrified Inlet Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Model CI358 Supervalve Wall Inlet & Rough-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

INSTALLATION IN EXISTING CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-19

Locating Access Keys in Existing Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Avoiding In-Wall Obstacles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Installing Inlet Tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-15

Wall Inlet Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-18

Models CI370 & 360 Wall Inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-19

Model 330 & CI335 Wall Inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Floor Inlet Installation in New and Existing Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Original VacPan Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-22

ORIGINAL VACUSWEEP INLET VALVE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23-25

ASSEMBLING THE TUBING SYSTEM

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-30

POWER UNIT INSTALLATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31-33

Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Tubing Connections at Power Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Dimensional Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

FINAL SYSTEM CHECK

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-37

THE RANCH STYLE HOUSE

Here the power unit is mounted in the

garage. The intake and exhaust

tubing, the only exposed tubing in the

installation, runs up the garage wall and

into the attic. The trunk line runs

horizontally through the attic from the

power unit to the farthest inlet

location. Branch lines spread throughout

the attic, connecting the trunk line to the

inlet tubing. Each inlet tube is threaded

vertically through an inside wall. Located

in hallways and in large rooms, the inlets

are placed to provide maximum access

to all cleaning areas. See Figure 1.

THE TWO-STORY HOUSE

A double-trunk line system is commonly used in two-story

houses. In the installation shown at right, the power unit is

mounted in the basement. The intake tubing runs up the

basement wall and connects to the main trunk line, which

runs along the unfinished basement ceiling. Two first-floor

inlets are connected to the basement trunk line by vertical

inlet lines run through interior walls. In the center of the

house, a vertical branch line runs from the basement trunk

line, through stacked closets, up into the attic. A second

trunk line runs across the attic and two branch lines connect

to inlet lines which are dropped down through upstairs

interior walls. See Figure 2.

EXHAUST

TRUNK LINE

BRANCH LINE

INLETS

POWER

UNIT

INTAKE

INLET LINE

AH0003A

VERTICAL

BRANCH

LINE

ATTIC

TRUNK

LINE

INLET

LINE

INLET

EXHAUST

INTAKE

POWER

UNIT

BASEMENT

TRUNK LINE

AH0005A

The NuTone central cleaning system consists of a power unit, PVC tubing and fittings, wall inlets, a flexible hose and

various cleaning attachments.

The power unit is designed to be wall-mounted away from the living area of the home and connected to the living area by means

of permanently installed in-wall tubing, fittings and inlets.

Generally, an installation will require 3 to 4 inlets and 16 to 20 feet of tubing per inlet. It is suggested that a floor plan be used

to more accurately determine the quantity of materials needed.

Use the following examples as an aid in planning the installation in either new or existing construction. You should be able to

adapt the examples shown to your specific home layout.

FIGURE 1

FIGURE 2

SYSTEM PLANNING AND LAYOUT

THE SPLIT-LEVEL HOUSE

Like the two-story house, the split

level installation commonly calls for a

two-level trunk line. Here, the power

unit is located in the garage. The

intake tubing runs exposed up the

garage wall and into the ground level

section's attic. Two branch lines

connect this part of the trunk line to

inlet lines which are dropped inside

interior walls. A vertical branch line

runs to the upstairs attic, where the

trunk line branches into a T-shape.

This trunk line connects to two

upstairs inlet lines and to one inlet line

which drops through an upstairs wall

and down into the third-level utility

room to service this entire level. See

Figure 3.

EXHAUST

POWER

UNIT

INTAKE

TRUNK

LINE

VERTICAL

BRANCH

LINE

BRANCH

LINES

INLET

LINE

INLET

BRANCH

LINE

AH0004A

LOCATING THE POWER UNIT

• Locate the power unit at the lowest possible position

away from the general living area in an accessible

location for changing the filter bag or debris bucket.

• When planning, remember the power unit is equipped

with an inlet to service a garage, basement, utility room,

etc., wherever it is located.

• Locate the power unit within six feet of a grounded

electrical outlet. The VX475 and VX550 power units

require a 120 V, dedicated 20-amp branch circuit with a

NEMA 5-20R receptacle. The VX1000 power unit

requires a 240 VAC, dedicated 20-amp branch circuit

with a NEMA 6-20R receptacle.

• Do not locate the power unit close to a source of extreme

heat (i.e., water heater) or in an area with a high ambient

temperature (i.e., attic, furnace room).

• If the power unit is located in a closet or a small utility

room, make sure the area is well-ventilated (i.e., with

door louvers).

• Exhausting the power unit to the outside is recommended

for optimal performance. The exhaust should not be vented

into a wall, a ceiling or a concealed space in the house.

The exhaust line should be vented outside the home

using a Model 393 or CI330 wall caps.

TUBING AND WALL

INLET LOCATIONS

1. Locate inlets on interior walls, choosing central

locations which allow several rooms to be cleaned from

a single inlet using a 30-foot long hose.

2. The tubing installation should consist of a main trunk line

running from the farthest wall inlet to the power unit

location, with branch lines running to each additional

inlet. Keep all tubing lines as straight as possible and use

as few fittings as possible.

3. Beginning at the area farthest from the power unit,

choose a tentative inlet location. Measure 30 feet from

the proposed inlet location to the farthest corner of the

rooms to be cleaned by that inlet to determine if inlet

location is proper. If working from blueprints (or building

plans drawn at 1⁄4" = 1 ft. scale), use a 7½" chain as your

guide to determine inlet locations.

4. Locate inlets within six feet of an electrical receptacle

to allow use of optional current-carrying hose.

5. Be sure inlets will not be blocked by doors or furniture.

6. Be sure inlets will not interfere with electrical, plumbing

or other mechanical installations.

7. Move tentative inlet location if necessary. Use the same

procedure to determine each additional inlet location,

always working toward the power unit.

FIGURE 3

WORKING WITH

PLASTIC TUBING

Cutting the Tubing

Before you cut a length of tube, accurately measure the

length you need. Allow 5/8” of tubing for inserting into

fittings and 1 ½” for placing into flexible tubing. Cut the

plastic tubing with a hacksaw, making sure that the cut is

exactly square. (You can use a tube cutter if one is

available.) Use wire cutters or tin snips to cut flexible

tubing. The 8” lengths of flexible tubing supplied with each

inlet should not be cut. See Figure 4.

Use a small knife to remove any burrs from the inside of the

tube. You can also use steel wool to remove burrs. The burrs

must be removed or they may impede air flow of form clogs

by snagging hair and carpet thread. See Figure 5.

Next, use a file to slightly bevel the outside of the tube so

that it will easily slide into the fitting. Use steel wool or a light

grained sandpaper to buff the surface of the tube which will

be glued. This will clean the tube and assure a good seal.

See Figure 6.

• Wire Strippers • 1/4" Drill

• Utility Knife • Putty Knife

• Knife • Hammer

• 2½" Hole Saw • Keyhole Saw

• 1/2" Drill • Cold Chisel

• Level • Flashlight

• Drill Bit • Electrical Tape

• Screwdriver • Safety Glasses

• Wrench • Hacksaw

• Tape Measurer

GENERAL INSTALLATION GUIDE

TOOL LISTING

Depending on your installation, you may require the use of these tools. The power tools are recommended

to make your installation proceed quickly. Also, plan a mask when cutting ducting (PVC dust) and gloves when using glue.

AR0016

AR0017

AR0018

WARNING

When applicable local regulations comprise more restrictive installation and/or certification requirements,

the aforementioned requirements prevail on those of this document and the installer agrees to conform

to these at his own expenses.

FIGURE 5

FIGURE 6

FIGURE 4

Making a Joint

Insert the tube into the fitting, aligning the two parts as they

will be installed. Mark the tube and the fitting so that you can

quickly realign the joint. See Figure 7.

Apply cement only to the outside of the tube. Dab the

cement generously in an inch-wide band. Insert the tube into

the fitting with the alignment marks a quarter turn apart, and

then quickly push and turn the fitting to align the marks and

spread the cement. Allow one minute for the joint to dry. You

may also use electrical tape or duct tape to further seal the

joint. See Figure 8.

Cementing Flexible Tubing

Make sure the ends of the flexible tubing are even—trim if

necessary. When you join flexible tubing to plastic tubing or

to an inlet mounting plate, apply cement to both the inside of

the flexible tubing and the outside of the plastic tubing or

mounting plate tubing ring. Twist the two pieces as you join

them to evenly spread the glue. Allow five minutes for the

cement to set in flexible tubing. You may also use electrical

tape or duct tape to further seal the joint.

Secure Wire to Tubing

The low-voltage power wiring is run along with the tubing. To

insure that the wire is secure and will not hang-up in a wall,

use electrical tape to attach the wire to the tubing. Tape the

wire approximately every 12-18 inches. See Figure 9.

AR0019

AO0010

FIGURE 8

AO0011

FIGURE 7

FIGURE 9

MODEL CF361 & CF361F (For Use with

CI370 and 360 Inlets)

3. Refer to Figure 10. Nail bracket to the side of the stud so

that the front edge of the bracket is flush to the front of

the stud. (The bracket may also be nailed to the front

edge of the stud. See face mounting illustrated. For face

mounting, use locating tabs on bracket for proper alignment.)

4. Refer to Figure 11. Remove cardboard from plaster

guard frame. Using four (4) provided screws, attach the

appropriate flanged fitting and inlet seal to back

of inlet.

5. Replace cardboard in plaster guard frame.

MODEL CF329 (For Use

with 330 Inlets)

6. When using Model CF329, glue

elbow to mounting plate. Attach

to stud as shown in Figure 12.

SIDE

MOUNTING

FACE

MOUNTING

MODEL CF361 & CF361F

/8"

/16"

AD0059

FIGURE 10

AD0015

INSTALLATION IN

NEW CONSTRUCTION

WALL INLET ROUGH-IN

Once the locations for the wall inlets have been determined, mount all inlet brackets.

1. Choose the appropriate mounting bracket for the inlet being installed. (See chart)

2. To locate a bracket on a wall stud, measure approximately 18" up from finished floor level. (Height may vary according to

individual preference.)

Rough-In Series

395 396-1 396-3 CI3301RK CI3303RK CF329 CF361 CF361F CI395RK

330 X X X

360 X X X X X

CI335 X

CI358 Rough-in and wall valve sold together

CI370 X X X X X

CI390 X

CI395 X

CI398 X X X

Wall Valve Series

AD0060

FIGURE 11

FIGURE 12

INSTALLING THE TUBING

Use the following installation guidelines when installing tubing.

1. Start tubing installation at farthest inlet and work toward

the power unit.

2. Tubing run to the power unit should be as straight as

possible.

3. When assembling sections with elbows and tees, make

sure the curve in the fitting is aligned so that the air flows

toward the power unit.

4. Branch lines should always join the trunk line from above

or from the same level. Never join a branch line from an

angle below the trunk line.

5. Refer to Figure 25 on page 9. Run low voltage wiring

(Model 376UL) and secure wiring to tubing as tubing is

installed. Model CF380 Pipe Support can be used to

support long runs of tubing (position near joists) and to

clip wire along tubing. Secure tubing to joists or studs.

Leave approximately 6" of wire for connection to each

inlet.

6. Cut a 2 ½" diameter hole in sole plate, header or stud

directly in line with opening of inlet bracket fitting.

NOTE: See Figure 13 for center line dimensions.

7. Refer to Figure 14. Measure length of tubing needed to

connect inlet to trunk line. Allow approximately 3⁄4" of

tubing for inserting into fittings.

8. Refer to Figure 15. Cut tubing, keeping cut square.

9. Refer to Figure 16. Remove burrs from both inside and

outside of tubing.

10.Before cementing, pre-assemble section to inlet

fitting, check for proper length.

11.Refer to Figure 17. Apply PVC cement (Model 379) to

outside of tubing. Coat tubing approximately 1" back.

Take care to keep cement from inside of tube.

12.Refer to Figure 18. Insert tubing into fitting with a twisting

motion to evenly spread cement. Be sure tubing is firmly

seated in fitting.

13.If fittings have been attached to tubing at the end opposite

the inlet bracket, be sure alignment is proper before

cement sets.

14.Refer to Figure 19. Tape wire to tubing to hold in place

and insert through hole in inlet bracket.

15.Connect each inlet line and branch line into main trunk

line. Complete low voltage wiring as main trunk line is

continued back to power unit.

SIDE MOUNTING

MODEL CF361 MOUNTING

2”

FACE MOUNTING

MODEL CF329 MOUNTING

FACE MOUNTING

2½” DIA. HOLE

THROUGH SOLE PLATE

AD0055

/16

”

/16

”

2½” DIA. HOLE

THROUGH SOLE PLATE

/16

”

/16

”

AR0016

AR0017

AR0020

AO0012

AD0018

AD0017A

INCLUDE FITTING RECESS

IN MEASUREMENT

TUBING MEASUREMENT

PVC TUBING

FITTING

3/4”

(19 mm)

FITTING

3/4”

(19 mm)

FIGURE 15

FIGURE 16

FIGURE 17

FIGURE 18

FIGURE 19

CAUTION

When tubing is run through the wall stud, sole

plate, headers or else where building materials

will be attached, place a nail (Model 378) over that

area (on both sides if necessary) to prevent nails

from piercing tubing.

FIGURE 13

FIGURE 14

WALL INLET INSTALLATION

Model CI370 Wall Inlet (CF361 and CF361F

Rough-In)

1. Remove the cardboard plaster guard.

2. Refer to Figure 20. For some drywall or panel

construction, the plaster frame will extend beyond the

finished wall. In this case, remove plaster frame from

mounting bracket by removing mounting screws.

NOTE: When using the model CF361 and CF361F inlet

bracket on walls thinner than 1⁄2", use a 1⁄4" spacer (not

furnished) between the wall and the inlet bracket. See

Figure 23. Spacer may be made from plywood, Masonite™,

etc. Contact cement may be used to hold spacer in place

during assembly. Configuration of spacer may vary depending

upon installation.

3. Refer to Figure 21. Connect the red striped wire of the

2-conductor low voltage cable to the unused terminal

screw on the inlet. Connect the remaining wire to the

black pigtail wire. Cap off both wires using wire nut

(supplied).

NOTE: The LED indicator light used in the CI370 is polarity

sensitive. If the 2-conductor cable used to connect the inlet

to the power unit does not have a polarity marking and the

CI370 is wired backwards, no damage will result;

however, the indicator will light RED instead of GREEN

when the hose is inserted into the inlet. To correct this

condition, simply reverse the 2-conductor connections at the

CI370 inlet.

4. Guide excess wire back through the hole in inlet bracket

and flanged fitting.

5. Refer to Figure 26. Place inlet into mounting bracket and

secure.

NOTE: When wall inlets are installed in walls that are less

than 1⁄2" thick or when inlets are installed back-to-back in a

wall, the tube of the wall inlet may extend into elbow area of

the flanged fitting and cause blockage. Shorten the wall inlet

tube to prevent this condition. Refer to Figure 24.

For extra thick walls, use Model 399 Extension Sleeve to

connect inlet to the flanged fitting.

Model 360 Wall Inlet (CF361 and CF361F

Rough-In)

1. Follow steps 1-2 as above.

2. Refer to Figure 25. Connect 2-conductor low-voltage

wire to terminal screws on back of wall inlet.

3. Follow steps 4-5 above.

Model 330 Wall Inlet (CF329 Rough-In)

See Figure 26

1. Connect 2-conductor low-voltage wire to terminal screws

on back of wall inlet.

2. Align inlet mounting holes with holes in mounting plate.

See Figure 26.

3. Place inlet into mounting plate and secure with two

provided screws. See Figure 26

AR0045

AO0069

FIGURE 20

FIGURE 21

AO0071

INLET

MOUNTING

PLATE

AE0024A

AR0046

FIGURE 22

/4"

1/4"

INLET MOUNTING

BRACKET

SPACER

WALL LESS THAN

/2" THICK.

PLASTER

GUARD

HOLE

AD0057

FIGURE 23

MODEL CF365

DOUBLE FLANGED

TEE

WALL

INLET

MOUNTING

BRACKET

SHORTEN

WALL

FIGURE 24

FIGURE 26

FIGURE 25

CI390 & CI395

ELECTRAVALVE

™

ELECTRIFIED

INLET INSTALLATION

(CI395RK ROUGH-IN)

1. See Figure 27. Fasten the mounting plate to a stud

within three studs (48") of an electrical outlet box.

Measure and mark the wire 10" from the plug (A). Feed

the wire through the top hole in the mounting plate (just

above the circular opening). Snap the molded plug into

the mounting plate as pictured (B). This will keep it secure

and out of harm’s way during drywalling and finishing.

Line up the wire at the previously measured 10" mark with

the strain of relief channel on the back of the mounting

plate. Secure it in place with the supplied wire tie (C).

2. Run the inlet wire to the adjacent electric box. If you must

run wire through a stud, drill directly through the center

of the stud (D).

3. See Figure 28. Place the exposed ends of the two wires

into the electrical box through a strain relief channel (E).

Tighten the strain relief channel (do not overtighten) on

the white sheathing leaving 1⁄2" of this sheathing

exposed inside of the outlet box.

Fold the 6" of black and white wire into the outlet box. Leave

the wires to be connected by the electrician when plug

receptacles are being installed. (Attention: Power tools such

as routers are not recommended for use with the inlet

installation, as removal of drywall with these devices may

cause damage to the mounting plate and/or inlet plug).

4. Once drywall and finishing processes have been

completed, remove molded plug from mounting plate

(with the aid of a slot screwdriver) and snap it into the

wing slot at the back of the inlet (F). (NOTE: molded plug

fits one way only, with the narrow opening at the top).

Insert inlet into the mounting plate and secure inlet to

mounting plate with screws provided.

NOTE: All electrical devices such as the electrified inlet

should be reported to the construction electrician for

listing on the inspection report for building inspection

purposes.

NOTE: Plumb inlet to tubing using NuTone Model CF382S

90° ELL fitting.

AE0038

AE0039

WARNING

All location and installation direct connect

electrified wall valves must conform with all local

and municipal building codes.

FIGURE 27

FIGURE 28

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY. INSTALL ONLY ON A NOMINAL 120 V, 60 Hz, 7 A SUPPLY PROTECTED BY A

MAXIMUM 15 A OVERCURRENT PROTECTIVE DEVICE.

THE PIN CONNECTOR ON THIS TYPE A WALL VALVE IS INTENDED FOR USE ON A NOMINAL 120 V, 60 Hz, 7 A

SUPPLY ONLY. IT IS REQUIRED TO BE WIRED BY A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN AND IS REQUIRED TO CONFIRM

TO LOCAL ELECTRICAL CODES.

New Construction

1. Install BUILDING WIRE CONDUCTORS (1) through the approved type electrical CONNECTOR (2) (supplied) until they

protrude approximately six inches from connector. Seat connector firmly into the opening atop the WIRING COMPARTMENT

(4). Insert and secure LOCKING TAB (3).

2. Splice wires from INLET VALVE RECEPTACLE (7) to the protruding building wire conductors with no. 31 TWIST-ON WIRE

CONNECTORS (8) (not supplied).

NOTE: WHITE wire to WHITE wire & BLACK wire to BLACK wire.

3. Feed LOW VOLTAGE RELAY WIRES (5) through opening in the LVT COVER PLATE (6) and connect to the two contact

screws of INLET VALVE FACE PLATE (9).

4. Push Inlet Valve face plate (10) into MOUNTING PLATE (11). At the same time, push ELECTRICAL CONDUCTORS (12)

and connectors (8) into WIRING COMPARTMENT (4). Back out the two screws that hold the wiring compartment in place.

Slip upper FINISHED WALL CLIP (13) under the screw\heads and tightly fasten both wiring compartment and upper

finished-wall clip (13) with MOUNTING SCREWS (supplied).

5. Install the lower FINISHED WALL CLIP (14) with screws (supplied).

6. Secure Inlet Valve face plate (10) to mounting plate (11) using the two supplied color matched SCREWS (15).

No. LR 61865 No. 27Z2

Finished Construction

After pipe, low voltage relay control wire, electrical building wires and opening in wall has been cut:

1. Remove mounting plate NAILING FLANGE (16). Use a hack saw or score with razor knife along dotted line and snap off.

2. Repeat step one (from NEW CONSTRUCTION).

3. Install modified mounting plate with short 90° ELL glued in position into wall opening.

4. Repeat steps 2 - 6 (from NEW CONSTRUCTION).

AL0008

FIGURE 29

C1358 SUPERVALVE™ WALL INLET & ROUGH-IN KIT See Figure 29

WARNING

Do not operate on wet surfaces!

LOCATING ACCESS KEYS IN

EXISTING CONSTRUCTION

Unless your home is a ranch-style house where a single

trunk line can run directly through the attic or basement, you

should first investigate your house to find the key

to running your tubing from level to level. Look

for an accessible area free from obstructions that will

accommodate the 2" tubing.

If you understand how your existing home is constructed, it

can be relatively easy to find access routes to run the

tubing. Refer again to the illustrations on pages 3-4 as you

consider your home construction.

Some of the keys you might find in your home are illustrated here.

Stacked Closets or Laundry Chute

Many homes will have an upstairs closet located directly

above a downstairs closet. It is easy to run the tubing from

one floor level to another inside these stacked closets. In

these installations the tubing is often left exposed inside the

closets. See Figure 30. A laundry chute could also provide

access from basement to upper floors. You may also want to

consider running exposed tubing through cabinets or

cupboards.

Cold-Air Return

A cold-air return often provides a straight run from basement

to other levels of the house. See Figure 31. The ductwork is

easily cut for access. Seal around the tube when completing

the installation.

Use the following procedures for installation in existing

construction. Wall inlets in existing construction may be

accessed from below (basement or crawl space) or from

above (attic). Instructions apply to either method.

Starting from farthest wall inlet location, install each inlet as

described below. Working back toward power unit, connect

each inlet line and branch line into main trunk line. See page

26. Complete low voltage wiring as main trunk line is

continued back to power unit. Mount power unit and

complete wiring. See pages 31-33.

AVOIDING IN-WALL OBSTACLES

The tubing which connects the inlet into the trunk line is

threaded through interior partition walls. After you’ve

chosen an inlet location, make sure the wall doesn’t

contain some hidden obstacle which will prevent you from

running tubing to the inlet.

Exterior Walls

. The insulation in these walls will

prevent you from running tubing through them.

Electrical Wiring

. Wiring may not obstruct your

tubing, but you should always make sure that tubing does

not damage the wiring. Electrical outlets and wall

switches are signs of wiring.

Ductwork

. Avoid choosing a section of wall that

contains ducting. If you see signs of ductwork—such as floor

or ceiling registers—move your inlet location to another

section of the wall.

Plumbing

. Plumbing may or may not prevent you from

running tubing through a wall. If you must choose a

plumbing wall for an inlet location, be extremely careful

when making a cutout in the wall.

Wall Studs

. Make sure your location is between wall

studs. Locate studs by tapping walls, looking for

electrical outlet (usually fastened to studs), or noticing

finishing nails in the floor molding.

INSTALLATION IN EXISTING

CONSTRUCTION

FIGURE 30

FIGURE 31

INSTALLING THE INLET TUBING

When your planning is complete, you will have to determine

where all the inlets and the power unit will be located. You

have also mapped out the location of your trunk line and

found the access you need to run vertical tubing from one

level of your house to another level. You should have

acquainted yourself with the methods of joining plastic

tubing and acquired the tools you’ll need to install your

NuTone Central Vacuum System. Now, you can begin installation.

The first step to install the inlet tubing which connects the

wall inlets to the branch lines. As explained before, the inlet

lines run inside interior walls. You will find access to these

walls through your attic or basement. Briefly, you want to find

the exact location in the wall, drill an access hole through the

wall plate or header, and insert the tubing into the wall cavity.

This part of your installation requires close observation and

careful measurements. Take your time and make sure you

accurately line up your access holes with the locations

you’ve chosen for your wall inlets.

Locating Attic Access Holes

Drill the access holes directly above the inlet location.

To accurately locate the access hole, you must find the

space between wall studs where the inlet is to be located.

Observe the area around the inlet location. Look for

references you might be able to find in the attic: electrical

wiring, ductwork, doorways, etc. Measure and note the

distance from these references to the inlet location.

Enter the attic and find the inlet wall. Have a helper

downstairs knock on the top of the wall right above the inlet

location; locate the general area by following the sound.

Most likely, you will have to clear away insulation. Ask your

helper to continue knocking until you locate the area

between wall studs directly above the inlet location.

Next, measure the thickness of the wall. Mark the exact

center of the wall where you will drill the access hole.

Remember that the access hole must be placed exactly in

the center of the wall.

Locating Basement Access Holes

To locate access holes in the basement, remove the toe

molding or baseboard at the base of the inlet wall. Carefully

loosen the molding or baseboard by inserting the blade of a

putty knife behind it. Force another putty knife between the

first knife and the baseboard or wall. Gently hammer a cold

chisel between the two knife blades, prying the loosened

molding away from the baseboard or the baseboard away

from the wall.

Directly below the inlet location, drill a 1/16” reference hole

through the floor into the basement. (If you’re drilling through

carpet, use an awl to slightly open the weave. This will keep

the carpet from wrapping itself around the drill bit.) Insert a

piece of scrap wire or a clothes hanger into the reference

hole so you can easily find the hole in the basement.

Once you’ve found the location in the partition wall, you

must center the access hole in the middle of the wall.

Measure half the thickness of the wall and mark the

center of the wall where you will drill the access hole. If you

cannot see the plate, you can determine this measurement

from upstairs. At the nearest doorway, measure the

thickness of the wall, including the baseboard.

In the basement measure a distance equal to half the

thickness of the wall, using the reference hole as a starting point.

AR0021A

Wall Plate

Drywall

AR0023

Drilling the Access Holes

Once you are certain that you’ve located the center of the

wall directly above the inlet location, use a 2½” hole saw to

cut the access hole through the wall plate or header and into

the wall cavity. (A 1/2” drill is recommended.) Carefully

remove the drill from the hole.

Now, use a flashlight to inspect the wall cavity through the

access hole. Make sure no hidden obstacles will interfere

with the tube installation. (If this inspection reveals an

obstacle, find a new inlet location.) Repeat this procedure in

your attic or basement until your access holes are drilled.

Assembling the Inlet Tubing

Once you’ve drilled the access holes, you assemble the inlet

tubing and insert it into the wall cavity. Refer to “Working

With Plastic Tubing” on pages 5-6 before you begin to

assemble the inlet lines.

Select a section of plastic tubing and an 8” section of the

flexible inlet tubing. Apply cement to the outside of the

plastic tubing and to the inside of the flexible tubing. Join the

two pieces together and allow 5 minutes for them to dry.

Cut a piece of low voltage wire which is long enough for the

complete inlet line, allowing 6” for connections to the inlet

wall plate. Secure the wire to the tubing with electrical tape.

Tuck the 6” wire lead

inside the flexible tubing

so that it will not snag

inside the wall.

If space permits, you can

assemble the entire inlet

line by joining two

sections of tubing with a

stop coupling before

dropping the assembly

into the access hole.

(Remember to only glue the outside of the tubing when join-

ing two pieces of PVC tubing.) Oftentimes, tight attic spaces

require you to begin your drop and then join the second sec-

tion of tubing. Of course, the order of assembly, and the

length of tubing required depend on your attic space and

your wall height.

AO0014

AO0015

Whatever the case, insert the completed inlet line into the

access hole and thread it down inside the wall. The inlet line

should be long enough so that it extends above the joists in

the attic; at this height, it can be easily connected to the

branch and truck lines. When cutting the inlet tubing to

length, remember that your inlet will be placed at 18” above

the floor.

For a basement installation, assemble the tubing to the inlet

flexible tubing in the same way and insert it into the access

hole. A basement inlet line is necessarily shorter because it

must only reach 18” from the floor to the inlet. Most of the

time, Basement inlet lines are more easily installed by two

people after the inlet

hole has been cut in

the interior wall. See

“Wall Inlet Installation.”

Complete all your

inlet lines, and then

proceed to your inlet

installations.

WALL INLET INSTALLATION

The wall inlet design allows you to work outside the wall

—where assembly is easy and all the parts you need are

accessible. First, you make a cutout into the wall and locate

the flexible tubing attached to the inlet line which you

previously threaded into the wall. Then, you attach the flexible

tubing to the inlet mounting plate, assemble the other inlet

parts, and make the wiring connections. You place the inlet

assembly into the wall cutout, sandwiching the wall between

the inner and outer parts, and secure the inlet tightly to the

wall with two screws.

Assemble and install the wall inlet as shown in the

illustrations and as explained in the next few pages.

Be careful and patient as you make your first cutout and

install your first inlet by following the procedure step by step

—the other inlets will be easy to install in very little time.

Making the Wall Inlet Cutout

The wall inlet should be

located 18” on-center

from the floor and

directly in line with the

attic or basement inlet

tubing hole you have

already drilled in the wall

plate or header. the wall

inlet cutout must be

exactly 3

⁄8” high by 2

⁄8”

wide. It is crucial that you

make an accurate

cutout, and we have

supplied a template to

help you.

Place the template against the wall so that it is 18”

on-center from the floor. Use a level along the top edge of

the template to make sure it is square to the wall. Mark your

wall for the cutout by

tracing around the

inside of the template.

Then use your pencil

to mark the screw

hole locations through

punched holes at the

top and bottom of the

template. Remove the

template from the wall.

Use an awl or icepick to punch pilot holes where you marked

the two hole locations. Now, drill two 3⁄8” diameter holes,

using the pilot holes as the centers. Locate and drill these

holes exactly as marked with the template.

Also drill four pilot holes in the four corners of the marked

area. Make sure these holes are located inside the marked

line. Then, using a utility knife, score along the inside of the

marked line. For plaster walls, score the plaster deeply,

being careful to stay inside the marked line.

Next, use a keyhole

saw or a sabersaw to

make the cutout.

Again, be extremely

careful to cut along the

inside of the marked

line.

Attaching the Inlet Mounting Plate

Reach through the inlet hole and locate the inlet tubing.

Raise it up inside the wall until you locate the inlet tubing. If

the inlet is connected from the basement, have a helper

insert the inlet tubing into the access hole until you can see

the flexible tubing. Then, pull the flexible tubing through the

inlet hole and remove the low voltage wiring from inside the

tube. If the end of the flexible tubing is not even, trim it so

that it is exactly even.

Now, remove the nail flange (used for new construction)

from the inlet mounting plate. Use pliers to bend this flange

along the scored lines until you can break it off.

Apply cement to both the

inside of the flexible tubing

and to the outside of the

mounting plate’s tube ring.

Insert the mounting plate’s

tube ring in the flexible tubing

and twisting the pieces as

you join them to spread the

cement, and align the mounting

plate in a vertical position.

3/8”

DIA.

HOLES

Nail Flange

O0039A

Pilot holes must be

inside marked line

Cut

along

inside

of marked

line

CAUTION

When cutting into

plaster walls, make

sure the plaster is

firm and secure

around the cutout

area.

Hold the assembly in place

for a few minutes as the

cement sets; allow 5 minutes

for the cement to completely dry.

Now, strip the ends of the two

low voltage wires, and then

connect the wires to the

screw terminals on the back

of the inlet cover. Make sure

the wires are tightly secured

under the terminal screws. When the wiring is complete,

assemble the inlet cover to the tube guard and mounting

plate. Insert the top screw through the entire inlet assembly

until the screw engages the mounting plate.

Completing Inlet Assembly

Once you have attached the mounting plate to the flexible

tubing, pull the low voltage wire through the top wiring hole

in the mounting plate.

Installing the Inlet

When you place the inlet into the wall cutout, the mounting

plate and tube guard slip inside the wall; the inlet cover

remains on the outside.

Holding the inlet assembly

between your thumbs and

fingers, angle the bottom

of the mounting plate into

the cutout. Push the

assembly downward until

you have clearance at the

top of the cutout.

Push the top of the mount-

ing plate into the cutout

and lift the assembly

upward until the top screw

seats in the predrilled hole.

At this point, the wall should be sandwiched between the

mounting plate and the frame plate.

AO0044

AO0045

INLET

MOUNTING

PLATE

AE0024A

Insert the bottom screw into

the inlet cover and through the

other parts. Give the screw a

few turns until it firmly engages

in the mounting plate. Now,

level and slightly lower the

assembly. Make sure the wall

is sandwiched between the

inner and outer parts—you’ll

be able to feel if mounting

plate is firmly centered on the

inside of the wall.

Hold the inlet in place and gradually tighten down each

screw a little bit at a time. (If you completely tighten down

one screw at a time, the mounting plate may pull away from

the wall at the loose end and slip back into the cutout.)

Complete all your wall inlet installations in this manner.

If your cutouts are accurate, each wall inlet will install more

quickly and easily.

CI370 OR 360 SERIES INLETS

(CF361 OR CF361F ROUGH-IN)

NOTE: If 330 wall inlet is being used refer to Models 330 &

CI335 Series Wall Inlet on next page.

1. If area is clear, cut an inlet opening in the wall

approximately 18" above the floor. Make sure wall

opening and 2½" tube hole line up (Figure 32).

NOTE: If the wall for mounting the Model 360 inlet is less

than 1⁄2", a spacer must be used. See Figure 23 on page 9

as a guide.

2. Cut a length of tubing that will extend from inlet opening

to a point below floor level (or above ceiling level in attic

installation). Tape low voltage wire to tube and insert

tube through predrilled hole to a level opposite the wall

opening.

3. Apply cement to tube and install flanged wall fitting.

Make sure fitting is well seated and sealed (Figure 33).

4. Remove plaster frame from mounting bracket. Pull low

voltage wire through hole in bracket and insert bracket

into cutout. Secure bracket to flanged fitting with

4 screws provided. Be sure seal is secure between

flange fitting and mounting bracket (Figure 34).

AR0035

/2"

/16"

18"

AD0062

LOW

VOLTAGE

WIRING

FLANGED

FITTING

AD0064

FIGURE 32

FIGURE 33

AD0063

FIGURE 34

5. Attach the low voltage wires to terminal screws on back

of wall inlet (Figure 35). If using 361 Rough-in with CI370

Series Inlets, refer to instructions on page 7, step 3,

shown in Figure 10.

6. Insert wall inlet into bracket and secure with the two

screws provided (Figure 36).

MODEL 330 & CI335 SERIES

WALL INLET INSTALLATION

CF329 ROUGH-IN)

1. Make cutout according to dimensions in Figure 37.

2. Refer to Figure 38. Break off nail plate at scored line.

3. Refer to Figure 39. Glue elbow to mounting plate, place

assembly into cutout, and attach elbow to tubing inside

the wall.

4. Make sure mounting holes are exactly at top and bottom.

5. Connect 2-conductor low voltage wire to terminal screws

on back of wall inlet.

6. Refer to Figure 40. Align inlet mounting holes with

mounting plate holes, place inlet into mounting plate, and

secure with provided screws.

NOTE: If CF382S shorter radius elbow is used, it may

be necessary to use the short mounting screw to avoid

interference with elbow.

AE0040

AR0047

/ 8"

" (10 mm) DIA.

(6 mm)

/4"

(70 mm)

(98 mm)

(35 mm)

/8"

AD0020A

1/4"

3/8

(6 mm)

1/4"

Nail Flang

AO0039A

FIGURE 37

FIGURE 35

FIGURE 38

MOUNTING

PLATE

MOUNTING

HOLE (2)

ELBOW

AD0021A

INLET

MOUNTING

PLATE

AE0024A

FIGURE 40FIGURE 39

FIGURE 36

FLOOR INLET INSTALLATION IN

NEW & EXISTING CONSTRUCTION

Model CI370 or 360 Series Inlets (361 Rough-In)

1. Refer to Figures 41 and 42. After floor inlet location has

been selected, cut a 3

⁄16" x 2

⁄16" square hole in floor.

Center line of inlet must be located at least 2½" from wall

to allow cover to be opened when hose is inserted.

2. Determine direction of tubing and attach appropriate

flanged fitting to mounting bracket with four (4) screws

supplied. Be sure mounting bracket flange does not

interfere with tubing and seal is securely in place.

3. Refer to Figure 43. Position bracket with frame and

flanged fitting assembly into cutout from below and

secure to sub-floor.

4. Refer to Figure 44. Large end of Model 399 extension

sleeve should be cut to length to allow proper seating of

inlet against floor or carpet.

5. Refer to Figure 45. Pull low-voltage 2-conductor wire

through mounting bracket and attach to terminal screws

on back of floor inlet. Cement extension sleeve to Model

CI370 or 360 inlet. Insert extension sleeve through vinyl

gasket in mounting bracket and firmly seat into flanged

fitting.

6. For convenience of operation, floor inlet should be

installed to open back toward wall.

7. Refer to Figure 43. Secure floor inlet in place with two

screws.

MOLDING

WALL

TOP VIEW

/16"

AD0067

FIGURE 41

/2" MIN.

APPROX.

SIDE VIEW

MOUNTING BRACKET

FLANGE

AD0068

FIGURE 42

CUT TO

LENGTH

EXTENSION

SLEEVE

FLANGED

FITTING

MOUNTING

BRACKET

FLANGE

AD0070

FIGURE 44

WALL

INLET

EXTENSION SLEEVE

BRACKETFLANGED FITTING

TUBING

AD0071

FIGURE 45

FLOOR

SUB-FLOOR

/16"

INLET

EXTENSION

FLOOR

INLET

FRAME

MOUNTING

BRACKET

SEAL

FLANGED

FITTING

AD0069

FIGURE 43

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NuTone VX550 Installation guide

Brand: NuTone

Model: VX550

Category: Vacuum cleaners

Type: Installation guide

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NuTone VX550 Installation guide

NuTone VX550 Installation guide

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